The Emperor

Key phrase – Reasoned Authority
Archetype – The Father and the Hero

Symbolism - fatherhood, masculine sexuality, confidence, courage. Masculine Authority and power.

· Developed strength and vigilance; producer and planter of seeds, determining which ones are worthy of growing – seeds can represent ideas and opportunities
· Passing on secrets of success, showing you how to survive, he is at the heart of order, rationality and a methodical approach.
· Clear thinking, discipline, going ahead with decision with extreme confidence.
· Announcing principles, assuming responsibility for actions.
· Mythologically related to Zeus, metaphysically – the masculine aspect of the God Self and Supreme Authority.
· He tells us to use reason in handing out problems, to set limits, respect and live within societies regulations, to pursue out ambitions with confidence and courage.
· Discipline leads to self-sufficiency, however he is positioned to resist change other than his own.
· Presence in a layout could signify delegating responsibility; examine own authoritative behaviour or lack thereof.
· Look for control issues

Shadow: getting angry or vindictive when out authority is challenged exercising oppressive self-control or hardly any; depending on others to control our behaviour; difficulty making definitive decisions and carrying them out; confusing authority with aggressiveness or domination.

When you draw this card:
· Check your recent behaviour for signs of stubbornness or lack of responsibility
· Recognise and appreciate how you utilise your strengths and self-discipline
· Use more logical reasoning when evaluating your immediate problem.
· Consider accepting more responsibility for your project or for your actions in a relationship.
· Review your ideas or behaviour regarding a current authority in your life.

(Echols, Mueller & Thomson 1996)

The Fool meets The Emperor
The next person the Fool encounters is the Father in the figure of the Emperor (4). He is the representative of structure and authority. As a baby leaves his mother's arms, he learns that there are patterns to his world. Objects respond in predictable ways that can be explored. The child experiences a new kind of pleasure that comes from discovering order.

The Fool also encounters rules. He learns that his will is not always paramount and there are certain behaviours necessary for his well-being. There are people in authority who will enforce such guidelines. These restrictions can be frustrating, but, through the patient direction of the Father, the Fool begins to understand their purpose.
(http://www.learntarot.com/journey.htm)

Image: http://www.newmoontradingco.com/page/page/5565623.htm

~ Tarot Cards ~ 1 The Magician

Image: http://www.madroseart.com/magician.html

Archetype- The Trickster

The Magician’s key phrase is ‘creative focussed attention’. He is the focussed inner guide, who translates ideas to action. He is the master of the lessons of the Suits (represented by the wand, pentacle, sword and cup). He is the Shaman, Hermes, Mercury and the patron of education and architecture.

His energy helps us set priorities and act on them. He sets the theme of our quest as we embark on an inner journey. He channels energy toward the elements of our selves and relationships that need action. He encourages you to seek the higher purpose in all you do. He symbolises both your potential and your experience.

The magician draws attention to the discipline we will need to deal with problems. He brings spiritual growth into our lives, the divine forces expresses itself though our personal actions. Key words: creativity, initiative, to focus will and define goals.

Shadow: engaging in trickery and deceit, using black magic for personal or destructive intent, abusing power for selfish and hostile gain, dominating those who are easily dominated.

When the Magician comes up in a reading, consider the following:
• Examine your skills to make sure you are not overestimating them or using them inefficiently.
• Make a choice and take appropriate action rather than simply wishing for success or fulfilment.
• Only concentrate on the business or project at hand.
• Presume that there’s more here than meets the eye, and look for spiritual elements in your everyday life.
• Attend to the wisdom of your higher self.
(Echols, Mueller, Thomson, 1996)
Featured on Wild Witch